Emily's Story — 11 Sep 2009

Emily* has been working as a Home Carer since 2006.  She was selected to do her SVQ Level 2 in Social Care, but felt overwhelmed and anxious that she would not be able to do this on her own.  She enquired about support from the GCC Workplace Literacies Project to develop her skills and confidence to achieve the SVQ level.

The assessment process involved an informal appraisal, levelling and creating a learning plan.  Emily attended the "Write for Work" programme for 12 half days and was part of a small group of staff who were doing similar preparation for SVQs. 

Emily is currently attending John Wheatley College to obtain her SVQ.  She said, "I did not want to feel as though I was letting myself down by not being able to achieve this qualification. This learning has boosted my confidence to pass my SVQ and I know that I can really achieve something."

Emily's confidence has grown and she no longer has feelings of inadequacy when facing new tasks. After completing her SVQ she plans to share her positive experiences with her work colleagues.  She also hopes to complete a Computing course and to be able to help her son with his homework.  

*Name has been changed to ensure confidentiality.